“Among all creatures that are in the water, you may eat these: Any of the creatures in the water that have fins and scales, those you may eat, whether in the seas or in the rivers… Any creature that does not have fins and scales in the water is an abomination for you.” (Leviticus 11:9-12)

Questions: Why must fish have fins and scales? What is it about fins and scales? Why those distinguishing characteristics? What do they represent?

Ideas: Cook an entire fish, head, scales, fins and all (gutted of course) and use that as the conversation piece at your table. Whole sardines, sardine spread or pate could work too, and gummy fish if fish are not your thing at all…

“He took (the gold) from their hands, and fashioned it with an engraving tool into a molten calf, upon which they said: ‘This is your god, O Israel, who brought you up from the land of Egypt!’” (Exodus 32:4)

Questions: Why do you think that Aaron agreed to help make the golden calf? Is he as much to blame as the people were? It seems so out of character for Aaron to agree to this! What do you think happened? Have you ever been in a situation when you have done something against your better judgment? What happened?

Ideas: Serving any kind of roast or beef, even meatloaf will do to represent the calf. Set your table with a golden tablecloth or table runner, decorate the table with gold confetti or golden napkin rings – anything glittery or sparkly with which to decorate your table – or your meatloaf!

“The people remained far off, but Moses drew near to the thick cloud, where God was.” (Exodus 20:17)

Questions: Why did the people remain far away? Do you think you would have wanted to be close to the mountain? Why did God appear in a thick cloud? Why not in a pillar of fire? Aren’t clouds a little gloomy?

Ideas: Serve marshmallows, dark chocolate, chocolate covered marshmallows, and anything with whipped cream (which you can darken a bit with cinnamon or cocoa powder for effect!). Purchase or make meringues, or serve fruit with whipped cream to represent the “thick clouds.” Any “dark” chocolate dessert can be used to represent the “darkness,” and serving plenty of alcohol will be sure to make everyone a little “foggy”!